Matt Groening’s most recent attempt to distance himself from “The Simpson’s,” with Netflix original “Disenchantment” proved unsuccessful.
“Disenchantment” is presented in a generic medieval setting, with the standard “rebellious teenager fears monotony” theme.
With Princess Bean as the rebellious teen, voiced by Abbi Jacobson, we are met with her lifestyle of booze, drugs, implied sexual activity and depression jokes.
As in any adventure comedy, there must always be the sidekicks, in this case it is a demon and an elf that too suspiciously resembles Groening’s previous creation, Bart Simpson.
Everyone, become immediately disappointed when it is realized that the demon is not voiced by Bill Murray, but is in fact voiced by Eric Andre, but then become somewhat appeased with the demon’s, Luci, Bender-esque attitude.
Elfo, voiced by Nat Faxon, attributes Fry from “Futurama” as the elf immediately falls in love with Bean, and fails to effectively express his love for her and therefore constantly finds himself in the friendzone.
Speaking of similarities, Groening obviously spared no expense in creativity as “Disenchantment” is essentially a rehashed version of “Futurama,” with similar plotlines, animation design, variety of characters and even some of same voice actors from “Futurama.”
Princess Bean’s characterization falls short in the first half of the season as her potential level of badassery is hardly showcased.
The standard plotline is introduced, Bean grew up without a mother, whom she misses dearly.
Queen Dagmar, Princess Bean’s mother, is an obvious plot-twist archetype, a well revered public figure with the potential of becoming evil.
The show is comprised of one-liners and a few novelty gags, very quintessential Matt Groening, however, this is not enough to make up for the mediocrity of the show’s plotline and theme.
Although back stories of both Elfo and Bean were explored, it wasn’t delivered in an effective manner to keep the audience invested in the first place, as the character’s don’t necessarily possess personalities the audience can relate to.
With “Disenchantment” possessing so many mirrored aspects of “Futurama,” one is better off rewatching “Futurama” for the effortless irreverent adventures, classic running gags and an endless onslaught of on-the-nose jokes.
“Disenchantment” fell short in delivering originality, constant humor and a kick-ass female lead character.
The novelty of pg-13 rated debauchery can only be amusing for so long before the audience can become disinterested and use the animated series as background noise while they surf Instagram or Tumblr.
As an animated series to watch from time-to-time when you just need that safe dose of cartoon antics, that isn’t Disney-fied, or with the same level of raunchiness as “Big Mouth,” “Disenchantment” is the perfect fit.
